I Am But a Leaf

I am but a leaf, hanging on to the tree of life pushing forth a bud in springtime observing and looking at new life abound. Then comes the veins, pointed stars and oval rounds in a glorious soft green mesmerizing glow that stretches up in prayer to heaven, holding strong and steady through the summer. I catch the rays of the sun on my open lattice absorbing both light and warmth, freely dancing on my elongated branch never letting go of all I see. Then comes the change of autumn weather no longer hot but cool and breezes touch to snugly embrace, teasing me to release from attachment. I resist, holding on as long as I can but the sun has chilled and thrilled me as my colors fade and eventually, I must let go giving in, surrendering to winter’s temptress. I fall down, floating among the others gathered together in a pile spread across the earth, covered and kept warm under sleet and snow, to await the rebirth of spring when life returns again.